Pioner

Pioner is the debut game of the independent Russian studio GFA Games. This is a first-person shooter MMO inspired, among others, by S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series. In the game we play as a former special forces soldier trapped on the island filled with mutants.

Plot

The action of Pioner takes place on an island belonging to the Soviet Union. As a result of a technological catastrophe, civilisation is plunged into chaos. A mysterious anomaly cuts the island off from the outside world. The protagonist is an ex-soldier whose comrades disappeared during the disaster. His task is to find and rescue them and discover the secrets of the enigmatic research station MOGILNIK.

Mechanics

We observe the action from the first person perspective. Pioner focuses on exploration, acquiring items and performing missions. By completing assigned quests we raise our character level, known here as influence. This way we unlock better equipment at merchants and new, more difficult but more lucrative quests. During the game we come across four factions, each of which has its own quest lines. Depending on the faction we support we will see a different ending.

While exploring the world, we can encounter wild animals, hostile humans or aggressive mutants. The game includes a day cycle influencing the behaviour of enemies. Weaker, less dangerous adversaries roam the map during the day. When night falls, the LESHIY, the strongest enemies in the game, come out to feed. It is therefore important to take into account the passage of time during our expeditions. The game also has an extensive weapon modification system. We can attach various barrels, flasks and sights to weapons, thus adjusting the weapon to our style of play.

Game modes

Pioner is a multiplayer game focused on PvE gameplay. We can do story missions with friends, meet other players and cooperate with others in raids, during which we face extremely strong enemies.

On the map there are also Empty Lands, which are undiscovered zones full of valuable equipment. Wandering through them, we come across other players who also want to get valuable loot. We can join forces with them or fight in PvP competition.

Technical aspects

Pioner has a good, stylish graphic design. The game's dark aesthetics and changing weather conditions in particular may appeal.